Case with communication module having a double pin hinge for a handheld computer system

ABSTRACT

A case for a handheld computer system is described. In an embodiment, the handheld computer system comprises a personal digital assistant. The case has multi-functional capability. The case provides a protective housing for the personal digital assistant and includes a communication module which is integrated into the case for protection against damage, whereas the communication module transmits and receives data for the personal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the communication module comprises a radio frequency (RF) wireless communication device. In an embodiment, the case includes a front cover and a back cover coupled to the front cover via a double pin hinge. The personal digital assistant is inserted between the front and back covers, whereas the front cover protects the front of the personal digital assistant while the back cover protects the back of the personal digital assistant. The double pin hinge allows the front and back covers to rotate to a generally back-to-back position and to rotate to a generally front-to-front position, facilitating approximately 360 degree rotation about the double pin hinge by the combination of the rotations of each of the front and back covers. Additionally, the communication module is integrated into the front cover. The back cover includes a connector which couples to a communication port located on the back of the personal digital assistant, whereas the connector couples to the personal digital assistant inserted inside the protective housing formed by the front and back covers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to the field of cases forhandheld computer systems. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to the field of multi-functional cases for handheld computersystems.

2. Related Art

Computer systems and other electronic systems or devices (e.g., personaldigital assistants) have become integral tools used in a wide variety ofdifferent applications, such as in finance and commercial transactions,computer-aided design and manufacturing, health care, telecommunication,education, etc. Computers along with other electronic devices arefinding new applications as a result of advances in hardware technologyand rapid development in software technology. Furthermore, thefunctionality of computer systems is dramatically enhanced by couplingthese stand-alone computer systems together in order to form anetworking environment. Within a networking environment, users mayreadily exchange files, share information stored on a common database,pool resources, and communicate via electronic mail (e-mail) and viavideo teleconferencing. Furthermore, computer systems or other types ofelectronic devices which are coupled to the Internet provide their usersaccess to data and information from all over the world.

A personal digital assistant (commonly referred to as a PDA) is ahandheld computer system. It is appreciated that the personal digitalassistant is a portable handheld device that is used as an electronicorganizer which has the capability to store a wide range of informationthat includes daily appointments, numerous telephone numbers of businessand personal acquaintances, and various other information. Furthermore,the personal digital assistant has the ability to connect to a personalcomputer system, enabling the two devices to exchange updatedinformation or to synchronize their respective stored information.Additionally, the personal digital assistant can also be connected to amodem, enabling it to have electronic mail (e-mail) capabilities overthe Internet along with other Internet capabilities. Moreover, anadvanced personal digital assistant can have Internet capabilities overa wireless communication interface (e.g., radio interface). Also, thepersonal digital assistant can be coupled to a networking environment.

Some users of the personal digital assistant purchase accessories such aconventional case. The conventional case for the personal digitalassistant typically includes a front cover and a back cover coupled tothe front cover via a single pin hinge, whereas the personal digitalassistant is inserted between the front and back covers. In general, theconventional case is comprised of hard materials including, for example,hard plastic, metal, or wood; soft materials, including, for example,leather or soft plastic; or a combination of both. The conventional caseprotects the personal digital assistant against damage and maintains theclean and neat appearance of the personal digital assistant.

In particular, users of the personal digital assistant purchase theconventional case to protect the data input device (e.g., handwritingrecognition device or digitizer) and the display device of the personaldigital assistant, to protect the personal digital assistant againstdamage from being accidentally dropped from a pocket or briefcase orduring use, and to prevent accidental activation of the buttons of thepersonal digital assistant. Moreover, the conventional case does notallow the user to view the display device or access the buttons of thepersonal digital assistant when the personal digital assistant is placedin a conventional cradle which facilitates synchronizing the data of thepersonal digital assistant with the data of a personal computer systemand which facilitates recharging the batteries of the personal digitalassistant, whereas the conventional cradle includes a connector whichcouples to the communication port (e.g., a serial communication port) ofthe personal digital assistant. Thus, the user typically separates theconventional case from the personal digital assistant before placing thepersonal digital assistant in the conventional cradle.

Typically, capability for wireless communication via a radio frequency(RF) link is provided to the personal digital assistant by coupling awireless communication peripheral to the personal digital assistant andto a communication port (e.g., a serial communication port) of thepersonal digital assistant. Usually, the wireless communicationperipheral latches to the back of the personal digital assistant orcouples to an end of the personal digital assistant, without providingprotection for the data input device (e.g., handwriting recognitiondevice or digitizer) and the display device of the personal digitalassistant. Typically, the wireless communication peripheral iscomparable in size and weight to the personal digital assistant, addingappreciable bulk and thickness to the form-factor of the personaldigital assistant. The conventional case is unable to receive thepersonal digital assistant while the wireless communication case iscoupled to the personal digital assistant, forcing the user to choosebetween protecting the personal digital assistant and adding RF wirelesscommunication capability to the personal digital assistant.

Moreover, when the wireless communication peripheral is coupled to thepersonal digital assistant, the user is unable to place the personaldigital assistant in the conventional cradle which facilitatessynchronizing the data of the personal digital assistant with the dataof a personal computer system and which facilitates recharging thebatteries of the personal digital assistant, whereas the conventionalcradle includes a connector which couples to the communication port(e.g., a serial communication port) of the personal digital assistant.Thus, the user typically separates the wireless communication peripheralfrom the personal digital assistant before placing the personal digitalassistant in the conventional cradle.

Unfortunately, the user faces a difficult choice in deciding on thecarrying configuration for the personal digital assistant. In oneoption, the user can carry the personal digital assistant coupled to thewireless communication peripheral, leaving the personal digitalassistant vulnerable to damage from accidents and to contamination fromdirt, dust, and debris. In another option, the user can carry thepersonal digital assistant in the conventional case, leaving thepersonal digital assistant without RF wireless communication capability.In yet another option, the user can carry the personal digitalassistant, the conventional case, and the wireless communicationperipheral, switching between the conventional case and the wirelesscommunication peripheral when necessary. However, in this option, theuser may find that he/she has insufficient space (e.g., in a pocket,briefcase, etc.) to carry all three objects and that he/she issusceptible to losing or misplacing either the conventional case or thewireless communication peripheral. Moreover, in this option, the usermay find it inconvenient and obtrusive to carry all three objects sinceconvenience, reduced-obtrusiveness, and compact form-factor areimportant factors in deciding to purchase the personal digital assistantand accessories such as the conventional case and the wirelesscommunication peripheral.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A case for a handheld computer system is described. In an embodiment,the handheld computer system comprises a personal digital assistant. Thecase has multi-functional capability. The case provides a protectivehousing for the personal digital assistant and includes a communicationmodule which is integrated into the case for protection against damage,whereas the communication module transmits and receives data for thepersonal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the communication modulecomprises a radio frequency (RF) wireless communication device.

The case has a compact form-factor which complements the form-factor ofthe personal digital assistant. In particular, the design, positioning,and selection of components achieves a marked reduction in the thicknessof the case compared to the combination of the conventional case andwireless communication peripheral of the prior art. Moreover, the caseis lightweight but durable and resilient. In addition, the case has astylish, sleek appearance.

In an embodiment, the case includes a front cover and a back covercoupled to the front cover via a double pin hinge. The personal digitalassistant is inserted between the front and back covers, whereas thefront cover protects the front of the personal digital assistant whilethe back cover protects the back of the personal digital assistant. Thedouble pin hinge allows the front and back covers to rotate to agenerally back-to-back position and to rotate to a generallyfront-to-front position, facilitating approximately 360 degree rotationabout the double pin hinge by the combination of the rotations of eachof the front and back covers. Additionally, the communication module isintegrated into the front cover. The back cover includes a connectorwhich couples to a communication port located on the back of thepersonal digital assistant, whereas the connector couples to thepersonal digital assistant inserted inside the protective housing formedby the front and back covers. In an embodiment, the connector comprisesa latching connector which electrically couples to the communicationport and which couples to the personal digital assistant.

The double pin hinge facilitates routing an electrical link between thecommunication module positioned in the front cover and the connectorpositioned in the back cover.

In an embodiment, the latching connector couples to the back cover suchthat the latching connector can be rotated about a pivot axis to alatched position and to an unlatched position. When the latchingconnector is rotated to the latched position, the latching connectorlatches to the back cover and couples (electrically and physically) tothe personal digital assistant inserted inside the protective housingformed by the front and back covers. When the latching connector isrotated to the unlatched position, the latching connector unlatches fromthe back cover, uncouples (electrically and physically) from thepersonal digital assistant, and rotates through an opening in the backcover to a position outside the protective housing formed by the frontand back covers.

In an embodiment, the front cover includes an inner front cover and anouter front cover. The back cover includes an inner back cover and anouter back cover. Moreover, the outer front cover includes an opening orwindow. A metal plate is coupled to the opening. The metal plate has athickness that is smaller than the thickness of the outer front cover.In an embodiment, the communication module is positioned between themetal plate and the inner front cover, whereas the metal plate protectsthe communication module from damage and reduces the stack thickness ofthe combination of the outer front cover, metal plate, communicationmodule, and inner front cover.

Additionally, the metal plate is a passive radiator. The communicationmodule includes an antenna for radiating energy, whereas the antenna ispositioned under the passive radiator. In an embodiment, energy from theantenna is coupled to the passive radiator to form coupled energy. Thepassive radiator radiates the coupled energy. The passive radiatorincludes a length and a width. The radiation pattern of the antennasystem formed by the antenna and the passive radiator is dependent onthe length and width of the passive radiator. Moreover, the bandwidthand gain of the antenna system is dependent on the length and width ofthe passive radiator. More importantly, the performance of the antennasystem is optimized by the appropriate selection of the length and widthof the passive radiator.

These and other advantages of the present invention will no doubt becomeapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after having read thefollowing detailed description of the preferred embodiments which areillustrated in the drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part ofthis specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and,together with the description, serve to explain the principles of thepresent invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a case in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a closedposition.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of a case in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention, showing the case in an openposition.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary personal digital assistant which can beinserted in a case of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the exemplary personaldigital assistant of FIG. 3 inserted in the case.

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in an openposition.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in an openposition.

FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of a case in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention, showing the case in an openposition and showing the manner in which the electrical link is routedfrom the front cover to the back cover via the double pin hinge.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of a front cover of a case inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a front cover of a case inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a closedposition.

FIG. 11 illustrates a rear view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a closedposition.

FIG. 12 illustrates a left side view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a closedposition.

FIG. 13 illustrates a top view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a closedposition.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in an openposition.

FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a fully openposition.

FIG. 16 illustrates a latching connector of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates a rear view of the exemplary personal digitalassistant of FIG. 3.

FIG. 18 illustrates a recess for inserting a pivot pin of a latchingconnector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 illustrates a latching hook of a latching connector inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 illustrates a rear view of a latching connector in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20A illustrates a bottom view of a case in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case in a closedposition.

FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of a latching connector in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 illustrates the operation of a tab and a latching hook of alatching connector in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 illustrates a latching connector rotated to an unlatchedposition in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 illustrates a latching connector rotated to a latched positionin accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

The drawings referred to in this description should not be understood asbeing drawn to scale except if specifically noted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of thepresent invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with thepreferred embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intendedto limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, theinvention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications andequivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in thefollowing detailed description of the present invention, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the present invention. However, it will be recognizedby one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may bepracticed without these specific details. In other instances, well knownmethods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described indetail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention.

Case for a Handheld Computer System

Although the handheld computer system described below comprises apersonal digital assistant, it should be understood that the case of thepresent invention can be utilized to protect other types of handheldcomputer systems.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a case 100 in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in aclosed position. The case 100 forms a protective housing that protects apersonal digital assistant (not shown) which is inserted inside the case100. The case 100 has a compact form-factor which complements theform-factor of the personal digital assistant. In particular, thedesign, positioning, and selection of components achieves a markedreduction in the thickness of the case 100 compared to the combinationof the conventional case and wireless communication peripheral of theprior art. Moreover, the case 100 is lightweight but durable andresilient. In addition, the case 100 has a stylish, sleek appearance. Inan embodiment, the case 100 is implemented with a hardcase body.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the case 100 includes a front cover 10 and aback cover 20 coupled to the front cover via a hinge 30. In anembodiment, the hinge 30 comprises a double pin hinge 30. As will bediscussed below, the double pin hinge 30 allows the front cover 10 andthe back cover 20 greater rotational freedom than the single pin hingeof the conventional case of the prior art, permitting the front cover 10and the back cover 20 to rotate to a generally back-to-back position andto rotate to a generally front-to-front position (as illustrated in FIG.1).

The case 100 has multi-functional capability. The case provides aprotective housing for the personal digital assistant and includes acommunication module Which is integrated into the front cover 10 of thecase 100 for protection against damage, whereas the communication moduletransmits and receives data via a wireless link for the personal digitalassistant. The case 100 of the present invention addresses the need fora device that combines the functionality of the conventional case of theprior art and the functionality of the wireless communication peripheralof the prior art while maintaining style, compact form-factor, and aminimum body thickness. The case 100 provides convenience and increasesproductivity because of its multi-functionality.

By integrating the communication module into the front cover 10 of thecase 100, protection against damage for the personal digital assistantand the communication module is attained and, yet, the case 100 is lessobtrusive to the user than the combination of the conventional case(which does not allow for the addition of accessories to the personaldigital assistant) and the wireless communication peripheral of theprior art. In particular, the case 100 is well suited to meet the needsof users that strongly resist purchasing bulky accessories for thepersonal digital assistant.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the case 100 includes a metal plate 40 whichis coupled to an opening or window in the front cover 10. The metalplate 40 has a generally rectangular shape. The use of the metal plate40 allows the front cover 10 assembly to be reduced in thickness whilecontinuing to provide sufficient protection against damage, as will bedescribed below.

As shown in FIG. 1, the front cover 10 is configured to couple to afirst pivot pin channel of the double pin hinge 30. Additionally, theback cover 20 is configured to couple to a second pivot pin channel ofthe double pin hinge 30.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of a case 100 in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in anopen position. The inner surface of the front cover 10 includes aplurality of recesses 110 to allow the front cover 10 to easily fit overthe front of the personal digital assistant, which has a plurality ofbuttons extending from the front surface of the personal digitalassistant. Additionally, the inner surface of the front cover 10includes a projecting center surface 120. As will be discussed below,this projecting center surface 120 occupies a space or recess above thedisplay device of the personal digital assistant so that to provideadditional space for integrating the communication module into the frontcover 10.

Moreover, the double pin hinge 30 includes a rod or center rail 60 whichallows easy insertion and removal of the personal digital assistant withrespect to the case 100. The rod 60 is shaped like a stylus so that therod 60 can be inserted into a stylus slot of the personal digitalassistant to couple the personal digital assistant to the case 100. Inpractice, the personal digital assistant is slid into the rod 60.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the inner surface of the back cover 20includes an opening 55 for receiving a connector (not shown) whichcouples to a communication port of the personal digital assistant,whereas the communication port is positioned on the lower rear of thepersonal digital assistant. In an embodiment, the communication portcomprises a serial communication port. As will be described below, anelectrical link (not shown) is coupled to the communication module andto the connector via the double pin hinge 30.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary personal digital assistant 200 which canbe inserted in a case 100 of the present invention. It should beunderstood that other types of personal digital assistants 200 can beinserted in the case 100.

Referring to FIG. 3, the display device 210 and the recess which isformed above the display device 210 is illustrated. In addition, theexemplary personal digital assistant 200 includes a plurality of buttons220. Moreover, the exemplary personal digital assistant includes a firststylus slot 215A and a second stylus slot 215B.

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the exemplary personaldigital assistant 200 of FIG. 3 inserted in the case 100. The exemplarypersonal digital assistant 200 is coupled to the case 100 by sliding thestylus slot of the exemplary personal digital assistant 200 into the rod60 (FIG. 2).

The front cover 10 is shaped and contoured to fit over the front of theexemplary personal digital assistant 200. The projecting center surface120 of the front cover 10 rotates into the recess above the displaydevice 210 when the case 100 is in a closed position. Additionally, theback cover 20 is shaped and contoured to fit over the rear of theexemplary personal digital assistant 200.

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in an openposition. The external surfaces of the front cover 10 and the back cover20 are shown in FIG. 5. Here, the double pin hinge 30 allows the frontcover 10 and the back cover 20 to form a 180 degree angle. As will bedescribed below, the double pin hinge 30 allows the front cover 10 andthe back cover 20 to form an angle between zero degrees andapproximately 360 degrees.

The back cover 20 includes a rear view of the connector (described withrespect to FIG. 2) which couples to the communication port of thepersonal digital assistant. As will be described below, the connectorrotates about a pivot axis such that in a first position (illustrated inFIG. 5) the connector is flush with the external surface of the backcover 20 and in a second position the connector extends outwardly andforms an angle with the external surface of the back cover 20.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in an openposition. In an embodiment, the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 areeach comprised of a plastic material such as a polycarbonate andacrylonitrile-butadienestyrene (ABS) blend. In an embodiment, the frontcover 10 includes an outer front cover and an inner front cover coupledto the outer front cover. The outer front cover and the inner frontcover can be ultrasonically bonded together, whereas the communicationmodule is placed between the outer front cover and the inner front coverbefore ultrasonic bonding. It should be understood that the outer frontcover and the inner front cover can be coupled using any other method(e.g., heat, mechanical fasteners, adhesive, solvents, etc.). Thesection modulus of the front cover 10 is increased by the bondinginteraction along the edge 130 between the outer front cover and theinner front cover that creates a truss-like transition. By increasingthe section modulus, the stiffness of the front cover 10 is increased,reducing the required thickness of the outer front cover and the innerfront cover.

In an embodiment, the back cover 20 includes an outer back cover and aninner back cover coupled to the outer front cover. The outer back coverand the inner back cover can be ultrasonically bonded together, whereasthe connector 50 is placed between the outer back cover and the innerback cover before ultrasonic bonding. It should be understood that theouter cover and the inner back cover can be coupled using any othermethod (e.g., heat, mechanical fasteners, adhesive, solvents, etc.). Thesection modulus of the back cover 20 is increased by the bondinginteraction along the edge 140 between the outer back cover and theinner back cover that creates a truss-like transition. By increasing thesection modulus, the stiffness of the back cover 20 is increased,reducing the required thickness of the outer back cover and the innerback cover. The outer front cover and the outer back cover form theexternal surface of the case 100. The inner front cover and the innerback cover form the internal surface of the case 100.

In an embodiment, the front cover 10 includes a hinge cover 150 whichcovers a top portion and a bottom portion of a first pivot pin assemblyof the double pin hinge 30. The back cover 20 includes a first hingecover 175A and a second hinge cover 175B which are an integral part ofthe inner back cover, whereas the first and second hinge covers 175A and175B cover a top portion and a bottom portion of a second pivot pinassembly of the double pin hinge 30. In an embodiment, the hinge covers150, 175A and 175B are each comprised of a plastic material such as apolycarbonate and acrylonitrile-butadienestyrene (ABS) blend. The hingecover 150 can be ultrasonically bonded to the inner front cover and tothe outer front cover.

In an embodiment, the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 are formedusing thin-wall molding technology. For example, the thickness of theouter front cover and the outer back cover can measure betweenapproximately 1.1 mm and approximately 1.25 mm. Additionally, thethickness of the inner front cover and the inner back cover can measurebetween approximately 0.75 mm and approximately 1.00 mm.

FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of a case 100 in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in anopen position and showing the manner in which an electrical link 80 isrouted from the front cover 10 to the back cover 20 via the double pinhinge. Here, the inner front cover and the inner back cover have beenremoved to illustrate the electrical link 80 and the communicationmodule 15, whereas the inner front cover and the inner back coverprotect the electrical link 80 and the communication module 15. Asdescribed above, a communication module 15 is integrated into the frontcover 10, whereas FIG. 7 shows the rear of the communication module 15.The components of the communication module 15 are located on the side ofthe communication module 15 that faces the outer front cover 10A.

Referring to FIG. 7, the case 100 includes a double pin hinge assemblyhaving a first pivot pin assembly 31 coupled to the front cover 10 and asecond pivot pin assembly 32 coupled to the back cover 20. The doublepin hinge is superior to the single pin hinge utilized in theconventional case of the prior art because the single pin hinge exhibitswear and consequent change in performance over many cycles of use.Moreover, the double pin hinge allows the front cover 10 and the backcover 20 greater rotational freedom than the single pin hinge of theconventional case of the prior art, permitting the front cover 10 andthe back cover 20 to rotate to a generally back-to-back position and torotate to a generally front-to-front position (as illustrated in FIG.1). Additionally, it is difficult to route the electrical link 80through a single pin hinge.

In an embodiment, the double pin hinge allows the front cover 10 and theback cover 20 to independently rotate relative to one another. Inparticular, the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 can each rotateapproximately 180 degrees, enabling the generally back-to-back position.Since the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 can be rotated to thegenerally back-to-back position, the personal digital assistant can bepositioned in a conventional cradle (as described above) whichfacilitates synchronizing the data of the personal digital assistantwith the data of a personal computer system and which facilitatesrecharging the batteries of the personal digital assistant, withoutseparating the personal digital assistant from the case 100 (i.e.,removing the personal digital assistant from the rod 60).

In an embodiment, the double pin hinge includes a friction system thatholds the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 in different positions asthey are rotated. In an embodiment, the double pin hinge includes ahousing having a first portion 35A and a second portion 35B (see FIG.5), whereas the rod 60 is coupled to the first portion 35A. In anembodiment, the first portion 35A and the second portion 35B (see FIG.5) of the double pin hinge housing are each comprised of a plasticmaterial such as a polycarbonate and acrylonitrile-butadienestyrene(ABS) blend. The first portion 35A and the second portion 35B (see FIG.5) of the double pin hinge housing can be ultrasonically bondedtogether. Additionally, the first portion 35A and the second portion 35B(see FIG. 5) of the double pin hinge housing can be coupled with one ormore screws 2 (see FIG. 5).

In an embodiment, the electrical link 80 includes a first end that iscoupled to the communication module 15 via a zero insertion force (ZIF)connector (not shown) located on the communication module 15.Additionally, the electrical link 80 includes a second end that iscoupled to the connector 50 (see FIG. 6) which couples to the opening 55in the outer back cover 20A. The double pin hinge facilitates routingthe electrical link 80 between the communication module 15 positioned inthe front cover 10 and the connector 50 (see FIG. 6) positioned in theback cover 20. In particular, the double pin hinge allows the electricallink 80 to pass through from the outer front cover 10A to the outer backcover 20A while allowing the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 torotate to form angles between zero degrees and approximately 360degrees. As illustrated, the electrical link 80 is routed from the outerfront cover 10A through a first pivot pin channel 130 of the double pinhinge assembly, a cavity 131 in the double pin hinge assembly, and asecond pivot pin channel 132 of the double pin hinge assembly and to theouter back cover 20A.

When either the front cover 10 or the back cover 20 is rotated, theelectrical link 80 experiences a torsional twist in the portion of theelectrical link 80 routed through the cavity 131 in the double pin hingeassembly. In the open position illustrated in FIG. 7, the electricallink 80 experiences no torsional twist. In the closed positionillustrated in FIG. 1, the electrical link 80 is rotated about thecavity 131 approximately 90 degrees by the front cover 10 and the backcover 20. In the fully open position (i.e., when the front cover 10 andthe back cover 20 are generally back-to-back or form an angle which isapproximately 360 degrees), the electrical link 80 is rotated about thecavity 131 approximately 90 degrees by the front cover 10 and the backcover 20. The electrical link 80 can comprise a flex circuit, a flatflexible cable, a flexible printed circuit, or any other type offlexible circuitry.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of a front cover 10 of a case 100 inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The front cover10 includes an outer front cover 10A, a communication module 15, aninner front cover 10B, and a hinge cover 150. The outer front cover 10Ahas an opening or window 41. In an embodiment, a metal plate 40 iscoupled to the opening 41 of the outer front cover 10A. The metal cover40 can be coupled to the opening 41 by approaching from above the outerfront cover 10A or from below the outer front cover 10A.

In an embodiment, the metal plate 40 has a thickness that is smallerthan the thickness of the outer front cover 10A. For example, thethickness of the metal plate 40 can be 0.25 mm while the thickness ofthe outer front cover 10A can measure between approximately 1.1 mm andapproximately 1.25 mm. Thus, the metal plate 40 reduces the stackthickness of the combination of the metal plate 40, the outer frontcover 10A, the communication module 15, and the inner front cover 10B.The communication module 15 is positioned between the metal plate 40 andthe recess 120 of the inner front cover 10B, whereas the metal plate 40protects the communication module 15 from damage. The recess 120occupies a space or recess above the display device of the personaldigital assistant inserted into the case 100 so that to provideadditional space for integrating the communication module 15 into thefront cover 10.

Moreover, the metal plate 40 is comprised of metals such as aircraftquality aluminum, 300 series stainless steel, or a clad-type material(e.g., nickel bonded to a carbon steel, aluminum bonded to a carbonsteel, etc.). Metals that are corrosion resistant, have stiffness, canbe decorated, and are good conductors are appropriate for the metalplate 40. The metal plate 40 provides a style opportunity, allowsembossment of a logo, and can be grounded to protect the communicationmodule 15 from electromagnetic interference and radio frequencyinterference.

The metal plate 40 can be coupled to the outer front cover 10A using avariety of methods. For example, the metal plate 40 can be coupled withmechanical fasteners, adhesive (e.g., pressure sensitive adhesive, hotmelt adhesive, etc.), ultrasonic bonding, heat bonding, or can beinsert-molded into the outer front cover 10A.

In an embodiment, the communication module 15 comprises a printedcircuit board having an antenna 17 for radiating energy, circuitry 18for transmitting and receiving data via a wireless link for the personaldigital assistant, and a zero insertion force connector 19 for couplingto the electrical link 80 (see FIG. 7). In an embodiment, the wirelesslink comprises a radio frequency (RF) wireless link. In an embodiment,the communication module 15 comprises a Bluetooth radio system. Thecommunication module 15 allows implementing a wireless interface forsynchronizing the personal digital assistant with a personal computersystem or interacting with a wireless network or any wirelessapplication.

Referring again to FIG. 8, the antenna 17 comprises a chip antenna ordriven radiating element. The antenna 17 can be any number ofconfigurations, such an inverted F, Folded Dipole, J-Type, or otherconfigurations.

Besides protecting the communication module 15 and reducing the stackthickness, the metal plate 40 also functions as a passive radiator 40.In an embodiment, the passive radiator 40 and the antenna 17 form anantenna system. the antenna system can include a counterpoise (notshown) arranged on the communication module 15. The counterpoise can bea ground plane. The antenna 17 is positioned under the passive radiator40. In an embodiment, the passive radiator 40 has a generallyrectangular shape.

The performance of the antenna system is optimized by the appropriateselection of the length and width of the passive radiator 40. Theradiation pattern of the antenna system is dependent on the length andwidth of the passive radiator 40. The gain of the antenna system isdependent on the length and width of the passive radiator 40. Thebandwidth of the antenna system is dependent on the length and width ofthe passive radiator 40. Moreover, the length and width of the passiveradiator 40 can be selected such that to optimize the radiation patternof the antenna system in a desired direction. Hence, the negativeeffects of the human body on the radiation pattern can be reduced byselecting an appropriate width and length for the passive radiator 40.Therefore, the antenna 17 does not have to be placed outside the case100, minimizing the form-factor of the case 100.

In an embodiment, the length of the passive radiator 40 is approximatelyone-quarter of a radiating wavelength of the antenna system, whereas theradiating wavelength is determined based on a radiating frequency of theantenna system. Additionally, the width of the passive radiator 40 isapproximately one-quarter of a radiating wavelength of the antennasystem, whereas the radiating wavelength is determined based on aradiating frequency of the antenna system.

In an embodiment, the length of the passive radiator 40 is approximatelyone-half of a radiating wavelength of the. antenna system, whereas theradiating wavelength is determined based on a radiating frequency of theantenna system. Additionally, the width of the passive radiator 40 isapproximately one-half of a radiating wavelength of the antenna system,whereas the radiating wavelength is determined based on a radiatingfrequency of the antenna system.

In an embodiment, the radiation pattern of the antenna system isdependent on a separation between the passive radiator 40 and theantenna 17, whereas a minimum separation enhances the radiation pattern.In an embodiment, the radiation pattern of the antenna system isdependent on a separation between the passive radiator 40 and thecounterpoise (not shown) of the communication module 15, whereas aminimum separation enhances the radiation pattern. In an embodiment, theradiation pattern of the antenna system is dependent on the width andlength of the counterpoise (not shown).

In practice, a portion of the energy from the antenna 17 is coupled tothe passive radiator 40 via radiation, induction, or capacitance to formcoupled energy. The passive radiator 40 radiates the coupled energy. Dueto power efficiency constraints some of the coupled energy is lostrather than radiated.

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a front cover 10 of a case100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The metalplate 40 is coupled to the outer front cover 10A, whereas the metalcover 40 has a thickness that is smaller than the thickness of the outerfront cover 10A. The communication module 15 is positioned between themetal plate 40 and the recess of the inner front plate 10B. The recessof the inner front plate 10B occupies a recess that is above the displaydevice 210 of the exemplary personal digital assistant 200.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in a closedposition.

FIG. 11 illustrates a rear view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in a closedposition.

FIG. 12 illustrates a left side view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in a closedposition.

FIG. 13 illustrates a top view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in a closedposition. In an embodiment, the thickness T of the case 100 measuresapproximately 0.719 inches.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in an openposition.

FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in a fullyopen position or showing the front cover 10 and the back cover 20 in agenerally back-to-back position.

FIG. 16 illustrates a latching connector 50 of a case 100 in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment, theconnector 50 coupled to the back cover 20 comprises a latching connector50. An end of the electrical link 80 couples to the latching connector50. Here, the inner back cover is not shown.

FIG. 17 illustrates a rear view of the exemplary personal digitalassistant 200 of FIG. 3. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the communicationport 260 (e.g., a serial communication port 260) is located at thebottom rear of the exemplary personal digital assistant 200. Thecommunication port 260 includes a plurality of contacts 265, a firstrecess 270A, and a second recess 270B.

Referring again to FIG. 16, the latching connector 50 electricallycouples to the communication port 260 of the exemplary personal digitalassistant 200 and couples to the exemplary personal digital assistant200, providing a robust and secure connection for supporting wirelesscommunication via the communication module 15 integrated into the frontcover 10. Moreover, the latching connector 50 can be disengaged from theexemplary personal digital assistant 200 to gain access to thecommunication port 260 without removing the exemplary personal digitalassistant 200 from the rod 60 of the case 100 so that the exemplarypersonal digital assistant 200 can be placed in a conventional cradle(as described above) which facilitates synchronizing the data of theexemplary personal digital assistant 200 with the data of a personalcomputer system and which facilitates recharging the batteries of theexemplary personal digital assistant 200.

Continuing with FIG. 16, the latching connector 50 includes a firstpivot pin 310A, a second pivot pin 310B, a first L-shaped member 320A, asecond L-shaped member 320B, and a plurality of electrical pins 350. Inaddition, the latching connector 50 includes a first latching hook 330A,a second latching hook 330B, and a tab 340.

The pivot pins 310A and 310B are held in respective recesses formed onthe outer back cover 20A. The latching connector 50 rotates about thepivot axis formed by the pivot pins 310A and 310B. In FIG. 16, thelatching connector 50 is in a latched position. The latching connector50 can be moved to an unlatched position by rotating the latchingconnector 50 in a clockwise direction.

Each L-shaped member 320A and 320B engages a respective recess 270A and270B of the communication port 260 of the exemplary personal digitalassistant 200 to couple the latching connector 50 to the exemplarypersonal digital assistant 200.

Each latching hook 330A and 330B is operable to securely maintain thelatching connector 50 in the latched position. In an embodiment, eachlatching hook 330A and 330B engages a respective latching member 385Aand 385B of the outer back cover 20A.

In an embodiment, the latching connector 50 is rotated from the latchedposition to the unlatched position when a sufficient force is applied tothe tab 340 (e.g., pressing with a finger). The sufficient forceunlatches the latching hooks 330A and 330B. When rotated to the latchedposition while the case 100 is in the closed position, the latchingconnector 50 engages the communication port 260 with a rotating motionso that to enable a wiping interaction between the electrical pins 350of the latching connector 50 and the electrical contacts 265 of thecommunication port 260 so that to remove surface debris or surfacecontamination such as dust, lint, or any other material. The outer backcover 20A includes an opening for allowing the latching connector 50 topass through to a position outside the protective housing formed by thefront cover and the back cover when rotated between the latched positionand the unlatched position. The inner back cover (not shown) covers therecesses of the outer back cover 20A where the pivot pins 310A and 310Bare inserted so that to secure the pivot pins 310A and 310B inside therecesses of the outer back cover 20A.

In an embodiment, the latching connector 50 is comprised of a plasticmaterial such as a polycarbonate and acrylonitrile-butadienestyrene(ABS) blend.

FIG. 18 illustrates a recess 98 for inserting a pivot pin 310A and 310B(see FIG. 16) of a latching connector 50 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. The recess 98 is formed on theinternal surface of the outer back cover 20A (see FIG. 16).

FIG. 19 illustrates a latching hook 330 of a latching connector 50 inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The latchinghook 330 engages the latching member 385 formed on the internal surfaceof the outer back cover 20A (see FIG. 16).

FIG. 20 illustrates a rear view of a latching connector 50 in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention, showing the relationshipbetween the tab 340 and the L-shaped members 320A and 320B and thelatching hooks 330A and 330B. The L-shaped members 320A and 320B and thelatching hooks 330A and 330B extend perpendicular to the tab 340 asillustrated by the dashed lines.

FIG. 20A illustrates a bottom view of a case 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, showing the case 100 in a closedposition and showing the tab 340 accessible by a finger of the user.

FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of a latching connector 50 of FIG. 16 inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 illustrates the operation of a tab 340 and a latching hook 330Aand 330B of a latching connector 50 of FIG. 16 in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. When a force 8 is applied to thetab 340 to rotate the latching connector 50 to the unlatched position,the latching hooks 330A and 330B experience an inward force 7perpendicular to the force 8 applied to the tab 340 which causes thelatching hooks 330A and 330B to disengage from the latching member ofthe outer back cover.

FIG. 23 illustrates a latching connector 50 of FIG. 16 being rotated toan unlatched position in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 illustrates a latching connector 50 of FIG. 16 being rotated toa latched position in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

In an alternate embodiment, the connector 50 is fixed to the back coverand does not have the pivot pins, the tab, and the latching hook,whereas the connector does not rotate. In this embodiment, the length ofthe front and back covers is visibly larger than the length of thepersonal digital assistant so that the communication port is coupled tothe connector 50 by sliding the personal digital assistant into theconnector 50 while coupled to the rod of the case 100.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the presentinvention have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the aboveteaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to bestexplain the principles of the invention and its practical application,to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize theinvention and various embodiments with various modifications as aresuited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scopeof the invention be defined by the Claims appended hereto and theirequivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A case for a handheld computer system comprising:a hinge; a first cover coupled to said hinge and having: an outersurface having an opening; a first thickness, and a metallic membercoupled to said opening, wherein said metallic member has a secondthickness that is smaller than said first thickness; a second covercoupled to said hinge, wherein said hinge allows each of said first andsecond covers to independently rotate relative to one another to form aprotective housing for said handheld computer system; and acommunication module integrated into said first cover, saidcommunication module configured to transmit and receive data for saidhandheld computer system.
 2. A case as recited in claim 1 furthercomprising an electrical link having a first end coupled to saidcommunication module and a second end terminating on said second coversuch that to facilitate coupling a communication port of said handheldcomputer system to said electrical link, wherein a portion of saidelectrical link is passed through said hinge.
 3. A case as recited inclaim 2 further comprising a connector coupled to said second end ofsaid electrical link, wherein said connector is configured to couple tosaid communication port of said handheld computer system.
 4. A case asrecited in claim 2 wherein said electrical link comprises a flexcircuit.
 5. A case as recited in claim 2 wherein said electrical linkcomprises a flat flexible cable (FFC).
 6. A case as recited in claim 2wherein said electrical link comprises a flexible printed circuit (FPC).7. A case as recited in claim 1 wherein said first cover furtherincludes an outer first cover and an inner first cover coupled to saidouter first cover so that to increase a section modulus of said firstcover, and wherein said outer first cover forms an external surface ofsaid protective housing and said inner first cover forms an internalsurface of said protective housing.
 8. A case as recited in claim 7wherein said outer first cover includes said opening, wherein said innerfirst cover includes a recess that extends away from said outer firstcover and that is configured to occupy a space above a display device ofsaid handheld computer system when said first and second covers formsaid protective housing for said handheld computer system positionedbetween said first and second covers, and wherein said communicationmodule is positioned between said metallic member and said recess ofsaid inner first cover to reduce a stack thickness formed by said outerfirst cover, said metallic member, said communication module, and saidinner first cover.
 9. A case as recited in claim 1 wherein said secondcover includes an outer second cover and an inner second cover coupledto said outer second cover so that to increase a section modulus of saidsecond cover, and wherein said outer second cover forms an externalsurface of said protective housing and said inner second cover forms aninternal surface of said protective housing.
 10. A case as recited inclaim 1 wherein said hinge includes a rod for inserting into a slot ofsaid handheld computer system so that to couple said handheld computersystem to said case.
 11. A case as recited in claim 1 wherein saidcommunication module comprises a Bluetooth radio system.
 12. A case asrecited in claim 1 wherein said handheld computer system comprises apersonal digital assistant.
 13. A case as recited in claim 1 whereinsaid first and second covers each includes an external side and aninternal side, wherein said first and second covers rotate into a fullyopen position in which said first and second covers are arrangedgenerally external side to external side, wherein said first and secondcovers rotate into a closed position in which said first and secondcovers are arranged generally internal side to internal side.
 14. A caseas recited in claim 1 wherein said hinge comprises a double pin hinge.15. A case for a handheld computer system comprising: a hinge having afirst pivot pin channel and a second pivot pin channel; a first covercoupled to said first pivot pin channel and having: an outer surfacehaving an opening; a first thickness, and a metallic member coupled tosaid opening, wherein said metallic member has a second thickness thatis smaller than said first thickness; a second cover coupled to saidsecond pivot pin channel, wherein said hinge allows each of said firstand second covers to independently rotate relative to one another toform a protective housing for said handheld computer system; and acommunication module integrated into said first cover, saidcommunication module configured to transmit and receive data for saidhandheld computer system.
 16. A case as recited in claim 15 furthercomprising an electrical link having a first end coupled to saidcommunication module and a second end terminating on said second coversuch that to facilitate coupling a communication port of said handheldcomputer system to said electrical link, wherein a first portion of saidelectrical link is passed through said first pivot pin channel, whereina second portion of said electrical link is passed through said secondpivot pin channel, and wherein a third portion of said electrical linkis pass through a cavity of said hinge which is between said first andsecond pivot pin channels.
 17. A case as recited in claim 16 furthercomprising a connector coupled to said second end of said electricallink, wherein said connector is configured to couple to saidcommunication port of said handheld computer system.
 18. A case asrecited in claim 16 wherein said electrical link comprises a flexcircuit.
 19. A case as recited in claim 16 wherein said electrical linkcomprises a flat flexible cable (FFC).
 20. A case as recited in claim 16wherein said electrical link comprises a flexible printed circuit (FPC).21. A case as recited in claim 15 wherein said first cover furtherincludes an outer first cover and an inner first cover coupled to saidouter first cover so that to increase a section modulus of said firstcover, and wherein said outer first cover forms an external surface ofsaid protective housing and said inner first cover forms an internalsurface of said protective housing.
 22. A case as recited in claim 21wherein said outer first cover includes said opening, wherein said innerfirst cover includes a recess that extends away from said outer firstcover and that is configured to occupy a space above a display device ofsaid handheld computer system when said first and second covers formsaid protective housing for said handheld computer system positionedbetween said first and second covers, and wherein said communicationmodule is positioned between said metallic member and said recess ofsaid inner first cover to reduce a stack thickness formed by said outerfirst cover, said metallic member, said communication module, and saidinner first cover.
 23. A case as recited in claim 15 wherein said secondcover includes an outer second cover and an inner second cover coupledto said outer second cover so that to increase a section modulus of saidsecond cover, and wherein said outer second cover forms an externalsurface of said protective housing and said inner second cover forms aninternal surface of said protective housing.
 24. A case as recited inclaim 15 wherein said hinge further includes a rod for inserting into aslot of said handheld computer system so that to couple said handheldcomputer system to said case.
 25. A case as recited in claim 15 whereinsaid communication module comprises a Bluetooth radio system.
 26. A caseas recited in claim 15 wherein said handheld computer system comprises apersonal digital assistant.
 27. A case as recited in claim 15 whereinsaid first and second covers each includes an external side and aninternal side, wherein said first and second covers rotate into a fullyopen position in which said first and second covers are arrangedgenerally external side to external side, wherein said first and secondcovers rotate into a closed position in which said first and secondcovers are arranged generally internal side to internal side.
 28. A caseas recited in claim 15 wherein said hinge comprises a double pin hinge.29. A case for a handheld computer system comprising: a hinge having afirst pivot pin channel and a second pivot pin channel; a first covercoupled to said first pivot pin channel; a second cover coupled to saidsecond pivot pin channel, wherein said hinge allows each of said firstand second covers to independently rotate relative to one another toform a protective housing for said handheld computer system; and acommunication module integrated into said first cover, saidcommunication module configured to transmit and receive data for saidhandheld computer system, wherein said hinge further includes a rod forinserting into a slot of said handheld computer system so that to couplesaid handheld computer system to said case.
 30. A case as recited inclaim 29 further comprising an electrical link having a first endcoupled to said communication module and a second end terminating onsaid second cover such that to facilitate coupling a communication portof said handheld computer system to said electrical link, wherein afirst portion of said electrical link is passed through said first pivotpin channel, wherein a second portion of said electrical link is passedthrough said second pivot pin channel, and wherein a third portion ofsaid electrical link is pass through a cavity of said hinge which isbetween said first and second pivot pin channels.
 31. A case as recitedin claim 30 further comprising a connector coupled to said second end ofsaid electrical link, wherein said connector is configured to couple tosaid communication port of said handheld computer system.
 32. A case asrecited in claim 30 wherein said electrical link comprises a flexcircuit.
 33. A case as recited in claim 30 wherein said electrical linkcomprises a flat flexible cable (FFC).
 34. A case as recited in claim 30wherein said electrical link comprises a flexible printed circuit (FPC).35. A case as recited in claim 29 wherein said first cover furtherincludes an outer first cover and an inner first cover coupled to saidouter first cover so that to increase a section modulus of said firstcover, and wherein said outer first cover forms an external surface ofsaid protective housing and said inner first cover forms an internalsurface of said protective housing.
 36. A case as recited in claim 35wherein said first cover has: an outer surface having an opening; afirst thickness, and a metallic member coupled to said opening, whereinsaid metallic member has a second thickness that is smaller than saidfirst thickness.
 37. A case as recited in claim 36 wherein said outerfirst cover includes said opening, wherein said inner first coverincludes a recess that extends away from said outer first cover and thatis configured to occupy a space above a display device of said handheldcomputer system when said first and second covers form said protectivehousing for said handheld computer system positioned between said firstand second covers, and wherein said communication module is positionedbetween said metallic member and said recess of said inner first coverto reduce a stack thickness formed by said outer first cover, saidmetallic member, said communication module, and said inner first cover.38. A case as recited in claim 29 wherein said second cover includes anouter second cover and an inner second cover coupled to said outersecond cover so that to increase a section modulus of said second cover,and wherein said outer second cover forms an external surface of saidprotective housing and said inner second cover forms an internal surfaceof said protective housing.
 39. A case as recited in claim 29 whereinsaid communication module comprises a Bluetooth radio system.
 40. A caseas recited in claim 29 wherein said handheld computer system comprises apersonal digital assistant.
 41. A case as recited in claim 29 whereinsaid first and second covers each includes an external side and aninternal side, wherein said first and second covers rotate into a fullyopen position in which said first and second covers are arrangedgenerally external side to external side, wherein said first and secondcovers rotate into a closed position in which said first and secondcovers are arranged generally internal side to internal side.
 42. A caseas recited in claim 29 wherein said hinge comprises a double pin hinge.